The FIFA and the World Cup 2018 coordination committee’s first monitoring visit to Yekaterinburg will take place on May 14, 2012.

First Deputy Head of Yekaterinburg Council Sergey Shvindt says this is a very important visit for the Mid-Urals’ capital, as it will determine whether the World Cup will actually be held in Yekaterinburg.

The officials expect to visit Central Stadium, Koltsovo Airport, and a number of prospective fan zones.

As for the fan zones, Historic Square is currently being considered as the primary location. To ensure safety, the river will be covered with special frames. Besides, the delegation will have a chance to test the free Wi-Fi in the square: the hotpoints will become regularly available in late May.

Shvindt feels that overall, Yekaterinburg is quite prepared for the championship on the preliminary scale and can boast great development potential. The presentations on Yekaterinburg’s plans on how to host the World Cup 2018 are all ready.